Tom Symonds from BBC News reported that police are seeking the ability to release more information about certain investigations in order to combat misinformation that could pose threats to public safety and national security. Three national policing bodies have suggested that there should be more transparency once a “tipping point” is reached, where allegations of cover-ups could potentially incite violence. This proposal comes in the aftermath of the Southport knife attack, where false information on social media spiraled out of control, leading to widespread riots across the UK due to Merseyside Police’s initial lack of response.
The current laws prohibit the disclosure of specific details pertaining to ongoing criminal cases prior to a trial to avoid prejudicing the jury. Merseyside Police faced criticism for failing to provide timely information about Axel Rudakubana, the individual ultimately convicted of the Southport murders, as social media inaccurately branded him as an asylum seeker and potentially linked him to extremism. This lack of communication was reportedly based on advice from legal prosecutors, as explained by the police chief.
In light of these incidents, a review is underway to examine the strict guidelines governing the release of information during active criminal investigations in Britain and how the justice system should address breaches. The National Police Chiefs’ Council, College of Policing, and Counter Terrorism Policing jointly recommended a balanced approach that upholds both the defendant’s right to a fair trial and the maintenance of public order, given the impact of unchecked misinformation on high-profile criminal cases.
Furthermore, the police underscored the necessity for a legal framework that recognizes the risks posed by misinformation in instances where public safety may be compromised. They advocate for greater flexibility in disseminating information at crucial junctures to counteract falsehoods and maintain public safety. The submission also highlighted the contrast between this approach and the more transparent practices observed in other countries, citing a case in Austria where details of a thwarted attack were promptly made public to keep citizens informed
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